Be Kind, Sleep In, Build Up

from First Baptist Church Newton

All the health-related developments of the last several weeks highlight how we are inevitably connected. What might it mean for us to be connected in the face of crisis? How may we support each other?

"As someone wisely noted, "'It is only dangerous to those with pre-existing illness or the elderly,' is a phrase that tells us that some might think it’s ok if those of us privileged enough to be healthy and young don’t have to worry." We need to exercise the muscle to care for each other, especially those who are elderly and others who may be more susceptible to disease. That might mean we don't shake hands as an act of kindness. Acts of kindness might also mean simply phoning (or texting) those we know might be anxious to say "hello."

Imagine if we created a culture in which support systems opt for those who are vulnerable. Health care systems, generally speaking, ensure the highest quality of care for those who are able to pay for it. Could it be otherwise? How might we ensure that care goes to those who need it most, not only as individual acts of kindness, but as something that is part of the cultures we inhabit?

Times such as these encourage us to think of these questions not merely as food for thought but as an opportunity to collectively think about how best we can we be kind to one another now and in the days to come. For better or worse, we are inevitably connected. We can choose, however, to be kind.

You may have already gathered that there has been an increase in hate crimes against persons of Asian descent. This happens in the middle of Manhattan where, just this week, a woman was grabbed by the hair and punched in the face by a person who asked her "Where's your (expletive) mask?" And, yes, it happens right here--wherever we are--to our friends, neighbors, and strangers. If we see something like it, we have the power to stop it.

If there is a mantra for this season, let it be, "Don't Discriminate, Be Kind."

In addition to all the other things we are doing already, let us not forget to be kind to our body. Sleep and be well rested. That goes a long way in building up our immunity and our common sense.

In the next days, we will be considering how to foster community using online resources and other creative ways. Stay tuned. If you have ideas, shoot us an email by simply responding to this email. We are in this together.

Let us use this opportunity to be kind, sleep in, and build up a community that opts for the most vulnerable.